BELVIDERE — Embracing undocumented immigrants who are looking to give back to their communities is the first step in enacting immigration reform, state leaders said at a forum Wednesday in Belvidere.

It will help the nation become more competitive both academically and economically with other countries in the world. All students can learn from one another in the classroom, and hardworking foreign-born residents won't have to take talents learned on U.S. soil elsewhere.

"It's very difficult to keep a growing relationship with this group when the government tries to destroy their lives," Alten said.

Those that met Wednesday are encouraging residents to reach out to their elected leaders for help. While the state can provide some relief for undocumented immigrants through social programs, federal reform is needed to get to the root of the issue.

"There isn't a clock that's winding down saying there's $1 million left, but there are 11 million people here. We need to (embrace them in) communities," Taylor said.